Agulo

A village on the north coast of La Gomera that Alexander von Humboldt called 'a small piece of paradise.' Its circular valley, surrounded by cliffs on three sides, creates a natural amphitheater with views to Mount Teide on Tenerife.

La Gomera itself is one of the least-visited Canary Islands, and Agulo sits off even the island's limited tourist circuits.

History

Agulo, located on the northern coast of La Gomera, is often dubbed the 'green lung' of the island, a testament to its lush terraced landscapes. Its history dates back to the arrival of the first Spanish conquerors, with the area initially settled in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. The distinctive terraced fields, meticulously carved into the steep slopes, are a hallmark of its agricultural past, designed to cultivate crops like potatoes, bananas, and wine grapes in challenging terrain.

Alexander von Humboldt, the famous naturalist, visited La Gomera in 1799 and was so captivated by Agulo's dramatic setting and its emerald green fields contrasting with the deep blue sea that he reportedly described it as the 'most beautiful village in the Canary Islands.' While never a major political or economic center, Agulo thrived as an agricultural community, sustaining itself through hard work and ingenious farming techniques. Its whitewashed houses clinging to the cliffside, and the striking red-domed church of San Marcos, contribute to its unique and captivating charm, preserving a powerful sense of history and tradition.

Highlights

• Called 'paradise' by Alexander von Humboldt
• Natural amphitheater setting
• Views to Mount Teide across the ocean
• Traditional Gomeran terraced agriculture

How to get there

From San Sebastián de La Gomera, take the GM-1 inland towards Hermigua, then follow signs for Agulo (GM-1/GM-2). It's approximately a 40-minute scenic drive. Buses also connect from the capital.

Explore nearby: Santa Cruz de Tenerife province